Endometriosis Awareness Month

Endometriosis Awareness Month, observed in March, aims to increase understanding and recognition of this often debilitating condition.

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Common Symptoms:

• Chronic pelvic pain
• Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
• Pain during intercourse
• Pain with bowel movements or urination (especially during menstruation)
• Heavy menstrual bleeding or irregular cycles
• Fatigue, nausea, or bloating
• Difficulty getting pregnant

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Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (called endometrial tissue) grows outside of it. This tissue can attach to other organs, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and even the intestines. Unlike normal endometrial tissue that sheds during menstruation, this misplaced tissue has no way to exit the body, causing inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue (adhesions).

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Endometriosis Prevalence:

• Affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age globally.
• Can also occur in transgender individuals and, rarely, postmenopausal women.

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Delayed Diagnosis:

• Diagnosis often takes 7-10 years after symptom onset.
• Misdiagnosis as other conditions (e.g., IBS, pelvic inflammatory disease) is common.

Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging. Symptoms may be mistaken for other conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

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Diagnosis typically involves:

• Medical history and symptom discussion: Your doctor will ask about your pain and menstrual patterns.
• Pelvic exam: A physical exam to check for abnormalities.
• Imaging tests: Ultrasounds or MRIs may detect large endometriomas (ovarian cysts caused by endometriosis).
• Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgery that allows a doctor to view and confirm endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

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Circle Medical providers provide annual OB/GYN exams in our clinics including Women’s Health Services such as birth control and infertility referrals.

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If you or someone one you know is struggling with endometriosis, talk to your Circle Medical provider about your concerns and get a referral.

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